One reason I participate in mission trips is that it brings oft-needed perspective to my life. Over the years, I've been on many and still, when I get to the work site in Mexico, the poorer parts of Kenya, or the refugee camp in Palestine, I am surprised to see children playing in the street, enjoying each other, laughing, smiling, just so happy even though their only toy is a flat tire and a stick.
In addition, young mothers and grandmothers extend a warm welcome, inviting us into their homes, and fathers appreciate any kind of work that will keep their family fed and sheltered. Every time I see it, I'm reminded of how I trade in the counterfeit currency that suggests money can buy happiness.
Some of you will remember Chuck Colson, who was convicted in the Watergate scandal. After serving time, he started Prison Ministry Fellowship, now an international ministry to prisoners and their families. Colson is a very smart guy and when he retired, it was to a Florida community of luxury golf villas with all kinds of CEO's as neighbors. He writes, "The longest I've seen any of them remain in the euphoria of their retirement is six months. Generally it's three months." One neighbor encapsulated the problem when he asked Colson, "Do I have to play golf every day?"
The writer of Ecclesiastes, referred to as "the Teacher," ponders the human pursuit of happiness and satisfaction. For twelve full chapters, he reflects on it and concludes that the vast majority of our efforts are "vanity," which can also be translated as "meaningless."
We'll look at it in detail this weekend as we begin a sermon series on "Living the Good Life." This week, we'll focus on re-framing precisely what that means. You can read about it here.
We'll also have excellent music, a few baptisms and a warm welcome for all. Come, and bring a friend.
Peace,
